There was yet another article about power bank fires on social media the other day. In reality, these are isolated incidents, but they do happen. We decided it was time to share our own insights of important things about power banks everybody ought to know.
The Fundamental Facts About All Power Banks
All power banks are portable ‘batteries’ that store electrical energy. They allow us to charge our devices when we do not have access to a wall socket. Consumers use power banks to recharge their smartphones, tablets, wireless earbuds, cameras, and other small electronic devices.
Important Things Inside Power Bank Chargers
There are usually one or more rechargeable lithium-ion or lithium-polymer battery cells inside every power bank we have opened. But they also contain electronic circuits to manage them. These are among the important things about power banks many people may not know.
These circuits control charging, prevent overcharging, protect against short circuits, and regulate the flow of electricity. Most power banks also have a USB input port for charging the power bank itself, and one or more output ports for charging other devices.
Important Things About These Recharging Devices
A power bank works by storing energy in its internal batteries. When we connect a device, the power bank releases some of that stored energy, and sends it through a charging cable. The electronic controls should ensure that the correct voltage reaches the device.
Should You Worry If Your Power Bank Gets Warm?
It is quite normal for a power bank to become slightly warm during charging or discharging. Heat develops because some energy is lost as it moves through the batteries and electronic circuits. Fast charging can produce even more warmth. However, a power bank should never become excessively hot.
To use a power bank safely, please avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, high temperatures, water, or physical damage. Use good-quality charging cables and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember, some power banks do fail.
Important! How Do You Know You Have a Problem?
There are several important things about power banks that serve as warnings. These include unusual swelling, leaking, strange smells, excessive heat, smoke, changing color, or a noticeable drop in performance. If you notice any of these signs, please stop using the power bank immediately.
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